Ken Switzer, who made La Jornada happen. He had a dream of a place where the boys who finished high school had a place to call home, while they took classes at the university. For Ken felt that if they had no place to go, and had no support physically, mentally, and spiritually they would end up back on the streets. Ken was able to rent a house, which hey still live in after four years. With donations and help from back home in Canada, this all was possible.
Ken’s Vision– Through these challenges, our vision continues. This home exists, not only to help provided each of the guys with higher education (and so hopefully break that cycle of poverty that has claimed almost everyone they know), but also to be a place where they are disciple and taught what it means to become effective followers of Jesus Christ.
If it hadn’t been for Ken these boys would been in a different situation and it wouldn’t be a good one,
Meet the Guys of “The journey”
Andres – Is 22 years old. He is studying to be a business major. He was only 8 years old when he entered the streets. He had lived on the streets for a few years before, he ended up in a children’s home. With the time that I have spent with Andres, I see him being a great leader. For the others look up to him, even though he is younger. He can be quite at times, but when he gets the chance he has a lot to tell.
Roberto– Is 21 years old, and he is in his third year of Law. Roberto ended on the streets because his family couldn't support everyone. So his older brother and himself left and where on the streets for many years, before ended up at a children’s home. Roberto is quite, but the other day had a very long and good conversation with Joshua. He is also one of the guys the others look up too. I would like to learn more about Roberto, but I know in time he will speak out.
David– Is 22 years old, and is working towards a degree in Psychology. David ended up on the streets because his mother left when he was 7 years old, and his father died. He went to the streets because living with family members usually never works, due to being ignored and being mistreated. David lived on the streets for 8 years before he was taking off the streets and was encouraged to enter a home. David is a wonderful soccer player, and someday will help kids on the streets with his degree.
Ruddy– Is 23 years old, and is studying to get a degree in Communication, were he would like to work with either radio, or television. Ruddy came from a poor family, and would go on the streets to work and would come home at night. He started to stay out on the streets. He began using drugs at a very young age, and struggled for many years with that addiction. What I have realize about Ruddy in the short time I have known him. Is that he has a great personality and the most likable person. While the others were very quiet to us at first, Ruddy was very friendly and open. It helped that at the house there is a foosball table to break the ice, but with Ruddy you didn't need an ice breaker. Let’s just say, Ruth on my team wants to beat him by the end of the month!
Ivan– Is 22 years old, he is studying to become a Physiotherapist. Ivan, had been on the streets for a long time, and was once part of a gang in which they had very satanic overtones and made him due things you can't imagine. Ivan has healed and would like to go on into medicine, once he has gotten his degree. He is a kind and funny person, who loves "Fanta" a soda. God has surely changed his heart and totally flipped his life around.
Jimmy– Is 22 years old, and is studying to become a Industrial Electrician, but he feels like God is calling him to do full-time ministry. Jimmy grew up in a poor family, but never lived on the streets. He loves to help people and has always shown a lot of compassion for those around him.
Alan– Is 21 years old and he is studying to become a Chartered Accountant. Alan came from a poor family, and spent one night on the streets and felt it wasn't for him, so he lived in a children's home. Alan loves number, and is very good at math. He hopes that once he graduates he can help support his family.
Sandro– Is 23 years old, and is studying Computer Programing. Sandro was born onto the streets by parents who lived on the streets. His mom died when he was young and his dad left, so Sandro had to fend for himself at a very young age. Sandro, the smallest of the group but is a hard worker. God is brining healing to his life, and he is working hard every day.
Americo– Is 19 years old, and is studying to become an, International Relations. He has been staying at the house for 6 months. He has a kind heart and is great to be around.
Jose Manuel– Is 20 years old, and wants to become an Aviation Mechanic. He is Andre’s younger brother. Is quitter then his brother, but does open up when he gets to know you better.
Ever– Is 25 years old, and is studying to become an Architect. He is also Ivan's older brother. He's come from a very difficult past, and yet he always seems to be filled with joy. He is a great guy to talk too, and has a lot to say.
If you would like to check out there page http://www.kennethswitzer.com/
If you would like to donate to La Jornada, because sending 12 young men to college and building a bigger place is not cheep. Click on the link above, and look on your right side and click To Donate.
